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Australian Open Opening Week Breaks Attendance Records as Rebrand Faces Pushback

Early crowds have topped 100,000, reflecting a strategy that blends qualifying with concerts plus a $1 million one‑point showcase.

Overview

  • Day 1 qualifying drew a record 29,261 fans at Melbourne Park, with 34,209 on Day 2 for more than 63,000 across the first two days.
  • ESPN reported 100,443 attendees through the first three days of Opening Week, more than double the 47,095 over the same period last year.
  • The One Point Slam expanded to a A$1 million prize, featured stars including Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Świątek, Coco Gauff and Nick Kyrgios, sold out Rod Laver Arena, and was won by amateur Jordan Smith.
  • Fans and commentators criticized the Opening Week branding and new ticketing as confusing about the main‑draw start, with ground passes around A$20 for adults and a kids‑go‑free promotion.
  • NAB estimates the event will inject more than A$600 million into Melbourne’s economy, while Tennis Australia reported revenue rising to A$460 million last year.